Grandma loved Josh so much, and had such a special place in her heart for him. He always knew growing up that she loved him, and never doubted that. Regardless of whatever the circumstances were in his life, he knew that if he went to his grandma, she would just shower him with her love. After we got married, and whenever there was hardships in our marriage, Grandma always let me know that our problems weren't because of Josh. He was practically perfect in her eyes and could do no wrong. Love is blind, and because Grandma loved him so much, she could see nothing but his goodness. He visited her just 3 days before she passed away, and he knew that her death was imminent. It was difficult for him to see her in that state, but even then, he could feel the love she had for him.
Yesterday was her funeral and burial in Salmon. Prior to her death, she lined out the program for her funeral. She told Josh and I years ago that she wanted Josh to play the piano for a song at it. The closing song was "Where Love Is" and I was privileged to sing a solo for it and I was accompanied by my husband. We practiced it over and over this week; Josh was nervous to play it on the piano, but he wanted to get it right to honor his grandmother's request. And it was absolutely lovely. He did a wonderful job; his grandmother would've been extremely proud of him. I know I was!
Some of the words in the song are "Where love is, there God is also. Where love is, we want to be. Where love is, there God is also, and with him, we want to be. Show us the way, and guide us tenderly, that we may dwell with him eternally". It was a very fitting song to end her funeral, and pay tribute to the wonderful life she lived. She was an example of love; she loved others freely, and was kind and generous to so many. We know that Grandma is in a happy place now, with the love of her life Rex, and her parents, and her son Michael. Families are forever, and we are so grateful to have this knowledge. It is peaceful and comforting to know that she no longer suffers bodily pains, but is happy and rejoicing with those who have gone on before her.
The following are some photos with Grandma...
Josh with Grandma and Pa-ah at our wedding reception, April 1998:
Josh with both of his grandmas at the twins' baby blessing in Salmon, March 2004:
A 4-Generation photo in Salmon when Kanyon was a baby, July 2008:
Josh with Grandma in her room at the Assisted Living Home in Blackfoot, March 2008:
At the Rex Tolman reunion in Blackfoot with her children, July 2010:
3 comments:
Thank you for sharing those photos!
Love the pictures of grandma! She was a special lady and we all felt loved....and yes, Josh held a very special place in her heart. :-) You sang beautifully at her services!
I'm so sorry to hear about Grandma Tolman! (you can tell how much I talk to my family about what's going on in Salmon). She was such a neat lady, I'm so sorry for your loss, but beautiful tribute to her in your post.
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